HILO — Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife firefighters expect to control a slow-burning 2-acre forest fire on state land along the Muliwai trail in remote Waimanu Valley by early evening today. The trail remains closed due to the fire, and no camping permits are being issued.

The fire was 90 percent contained as of this morning. A crew of 17 has worked since Sunday to construct a hand line to contain the fire, which has been smoldering in duff (accumulated leaf litter) under ironwood and other trees.

“Most wildfires in Hawaii are human-caused and preventable,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson. “This can occur due to unattended campfires or hibachis, illegal lighting of campfires directly on the ground in state forests, or even tossing a cigarette into trailside brush.

“We’re asking public to help prevent wildfires from starting or spreading, and to report any wildfires immediately by calling 911.”

The Hawaii County Fire Department responded on Sunday, June 16, the first day of the fire, by providing aerial transport (helicopter) for state crews. DOFAW assumed the fire response lead on Monday.